Top IT New Year’s Resolutions for 2026
January 8, 2026
As we step into 2026, IT leaders are setting resolutions that go beyond personal growth—they’re shaping the future of technology in their organizations. In a recent episode of FIT Technologies’ What the Tech podcast, our VP of Client Partnerships Becky Cross, CISO Jason Collins, and CSO Fred Franks shared their perspectives on the top IT resolutions that can drive innovation, security, and efficiency in the year ahead.
Build a Thoughtful AI Strategy—Don’t Just Chase the Shiny Object
Fred Franks kicked off the discussion by highlighting the importance of efficiency and the role of AI in business processes. While some organizations are hesitant to adopt AI due to perceived risks, Franks emphasized that waiting too long might be a missed opportunity. Instead, leaders should start by mapping out their current processes and identifying areas where automation can deliver real value.
“Automation is one of those tools that brings efficiency to bear. But it’s not about bolting on AI as an afterthought,” Franks said. “It’s about designing your processes from the ground up with new technology in mind.”
Balance Innovation with Risk Management
Jason Collins added that risk management must go hand-in-hand with innovation. Documenting processes and understanding where data resides are critical steps. Controls and protections should be built into every new initiative, especially when integrating automation and AI.
“Don’t just bring in the shiny new object and ask what it can do for you. Be intentional. Use it to solve a specific business problem and put guardrails in place to ensure it’s used appropriately.”
Empower Staff to Drive Change
Both Fred and Jason agreed that successful AI adoption isn’t just a top-down mandate. Instead, organizations should empower staff at every level to identify opportunities for automation and improvement. Crowdsourcing ideas from those closest to the work can uncover valuable insights and foster a culture of innovation.
Give your team a framework and guardrails, then let them use their creativity. Ask department leads to help build the list of where agents and automation can be most effective.
Use What You Already Have
Becky Cross reminded listeners that many organizations are already using AI—often without realizing it. Tools like Grammarly, which automate spelling and grammar corrections, are powered by AI. Before rushing to buy new solutions, take inventory of existing tools and explore their capabilities.
“Start with what you have,” Cross said. “Your ERP or CRM may already be building in AI features. Slow down, build your plan, and avoid the ‘bright shiny object syndrome.’”
Plan for the Long Term
The panel discussed the importance of thinking beyond quick fixes. While iterative improvements are valuable, organizations should also consider their long-term technology strategy. What will your 10-year application landscape look like? How will decentralized AI agents work together across your organization?
Setting strong IT resolutions for 2026 means balancing innovation with risk, empowering your team, leveraging existing tools, and planning for the future. As the technology landscape evolves, thoughtful leadership and intentional strategy will be key to driving success.
Bonus Tech New Year’s Resolutions
The rest of the FIT Technologies staff also chimed in with their own technology-related New Year’s Resolutions.
Mike Conner, TSS Technician: “Work on getting more certifications starting with the Net+ I have coming up in January. I've been doing IT work for a while now and I've decided it's time to work on learning more skills and getting the certifications that go along with them. The more I learn, the more I can be an asset to FIT.”
Nissa Franks, Client Engagement Team Manager: “Learn more about HubSpot automations and reporting by taking the available certifications and apply this knowledge to evaluate and automate a manual process.”
Patrick McGuinness, Senior Technology Strategist: “Complete the Microsoft Copilot Academy training available through Viva Learning.”
Jessica Jurcak, Service Delivery Manager: “More certifications and making sure to prioritize time for learning and skill development.”
Joseph Massaroni, TSS Technician: “Finishing my AZ-900 certificate that I’m looking to knock out by February.”
Adam Tubbs, CEO: “I’m challenging myself to discover one new way each week that AI and automation can elevate my productivity and professionalism.”
